FCC weighs stricter ID rules to curb robocalls

The Federal Communications Commission wants to tighten rules on phone companies to stop illegal robocalls. The agency voted last month to seek public comment on stronger Know Your Customer requirements for voice service providers.

Under the proposal, carriers could be required to collect a full legal name, physical address, government ID and an existing phone number from new and renewing customers. Higher-volume users could face extra checks on how they plan to use the service and whether other details look suspicious.

The FCC says the goal is to block bad actors before they flood networks with scam calls. A report from the U.S. PIRG Education Fund found Americans received 2.14 billion robocalls per month in 2024.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the agency must bring meaningful robocall relief to consumers. The commission has listed stopping illegal calls as its top consumer protection priority.

Civil liberties advocates say the rules could make it harder for people who rely on prepaid phones or temporary numbers. They note that some users need a phone not tied to a shared family account, a fixed address or a full identity record.

The proposal also lists possible red flags that could trigger deeper review. These include using a virtual office, a commercial address, a suspicious website, an email that raises concerns, or paying with cryptocurrency.

Carriers could face a $2,500 per-call base forfeiture for violations. That penalty may push providers to deny service rather than risk later blame.

The rules are not final. The FCC is still collecting feedback, including on privacy concerns. Any changes would take effect later.

For now, consumers can still take steps to limit robocalls. Let unknown calls go to voicemail. Turn on phone spam filters. Use carrier call-blocking tools. Register with the National Do Not Call Registry at donotcall.gov. Report suspicious calls to the FCC or through the registry site.